The Best Boutique Hotels in Rouen, France

This 15th-century listed building appears to blend in seamlessly with historic Rouen, courtesy of its cobbled courtyard, wrought-iron lamps and château-like spires. However, its interiors straddle the centuries thanks to a neon-backlit pool and hot tub, built-in white wardrobes and Pop art canvases. Stay in the double guest room and you’ll even find a brooding Fight Club-era Brad Pitt staring out from the walls.

A half-hour drive east of Rouen’s city centre comes this regal 6ha (15 acre) estate dating back to the 18th century. Its 10 stylish rooms include four suites with king-size beds, bathtubs and espresso machines. Although there’s no restaurant on site for lunch or dinner, you’ll be well served for breakfast options with generous continental fare, including a selection of jams, fruit and freshly baked goodies.

Surrounded by the Roumare Forest, home to wild boar and deer, this offbeat manor house comes with the advantage of a peaceful leafy setting while remaining just a 15-minute drive away from the centre of Rouen. The bold pink wallpaper, gold-framed portrait paintings and stag head wall mount ensure the place retains much of its 18th-century quirks.

Hotel Le Cardinal faces the Notre-Dame Cathedral and affords views of the impressive gothic structure from all 15 of its rooms. Rooms are fresh and minimal with neutral tones, parquet floors and provide wifi, a small desk and a flat-screen TV. Not that much time will be spent in the room, though, because its central location makes it so easy for you to discover all that Rouen has to offer. The hotel’s address is on a pedestrian-only street, meaning no noise from traffic at night.

Le Vieux Carré is a classically Norman half-timbered house that provides a homely bed and breakfast feel in a serviced hotel. Its 13 rooms are each decorated with a different motif – some floral, some colourful and others more subdued. Their salon de thé offers a tea service from a well-curated selection, rotated every six months, and home-made baked goods are served in the charming courtyard terrace from 3pm to 7pm. If tea isn’t your thing, they have fresh pressed juices and hot chocolate on offer as well. There’s also a restaurant, open for lunch only, with an extremely well-priced menu and delicious home-cooked dishes.

Les Initiés is a convivial spot combining a laid-back bar with inviting rooms, some of which are lucky enough to have a view of the neighbouring and ornate Palais de Justice. Owners Christelle and Philippe provide a warm welcome, whether you’re just stopping by for a pint in the pub, a bite to eat on their street-side terrace or looking for a place to spend the night. A continental breakfast is served daily as part of your stay.